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Kraken Range Navigation

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Alchemist Kraken APD6A MkII Integrated Amplifier
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Alchemist Kraken APD6A MkII Integrated Amplifier
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Specifications | Images | Downloads | Design | Servicing | 2nd Hand Market

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S    P    E    C    I    F    I    C    A    T    I    O    N    S

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Input sensitivity:   220mV
Output @ 1kHz into 8 ohms:   >55 watts RMS (Typ.60W)
Frequency Response @ 3V:   -3dB @ 100kHz
Distortion @ 15V o/p, 1kHz:   <1% THD
Distortion @ 15V o/p, 10kHz:   <1% THD
Residual Noise (Max. Volume):   <1mV
Power Consumption (Idle):   50 Watts
Power Consumption (Peak):   140 Watts
Dimensions (W x H x D):   320mm x 85mm x 250mm
Weight (Packed):   9.5kg
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Downloads:
Kraken Mk1 brochure (6.13MB) | Kraken Mk2 brochure (3.97MB) | What Hi*Fi? review Dec 92 (2.21MB) | What Hi*Fi? review Dec 93 (470KB) (thanks to Rob Gommans for the scan) | HiFi World review | HiFi Choice review
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Design:
Perhaps one of Alchemist's most popular and enduring products, the Kraken Integrated has had a loyal following since its initial release. This Class A amplifier is presented in a mini-sized case which exudes authority - but don't touch for too long as the metal knobs, on metal rods which lead inside the case, get very hot along with the rest of the amplifier. In fact, Alchemist stated that the amp would reach an idling temperature of 55 degrees centigrade in a 24 degree environment.

Independent input and record output switching are provided for the six line inputs, one of which can be upgraded with a plug-in MM phono stage (the process involves removing the top cover and a few of the knobs and rods, but isn't too difficult). All connections are via RCA connectors with an unusual inversion of the left and right connections (right on top and left beneath).

Finally, power is delivered by an external power supply, fitted with an encaptured 2 metre lead and locking connector for the power terminal at the rear of the amplifier. Power can only be turned on and off from the external PSU, but given the amplifier's design, for best performance it should be left powered up between listens (excepting when being left unattended for long periods).

Later models included a pre-amplified output, allowing upgrading with the addition of a matching Alchemist Kraken Power Amplifier.

Variances on the design of this model included a choice of gold or silver finished knobs, although the unit was most commonly supplied with gold knobs, the identically styled Kraken pre-amplifier was supplied with silver fittings, enabling a choice to be specified at the factory, should the owner wish.

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Servicing:
DO NOT ATTEMPT ANY WORK YOURSELF UNLESS YOU ARE COMFORTABLE WITH ELECTRONICS AND KNOW WHAT YOU ARE DOING

Power supply connection configuration:
Alchemist Kraken power supply connection configuration

The volume, input and record knobs can work loose at either end of their rods (where the knobs meet the rods or where the rods meet the switches inside the case. It is a simple matter to remove the lid, realign the knob and tighten the bolts in place with an allan key.

Sometimes the knobs can also become stiff as the rod to which they are fixed scrapes against the grommet it passes through between the outside and inside of the case. A small application of heavy grease inside the grommet is ideal, but avoid oil-based lubricants such as Vaseline as this will corrode the rubber grommets over time.

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2nd Hand Market:
Very highly sought after, many feel this amplifier still outperforms amps costing far more today than the £500 - £599.95 the Kraken integrated sold for in its latter years. Check for security on the PSU's five pin plug termination (where it plugs into the amp) and bear in mind that the main unit itself requires plenty of space for the heat to dissipate.
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